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What is your current role at TBH?
I am an Associate Director specialising in Project & Commercial Management. Additionally, I provide expert witness services (quantum) for dispute matters in the Construction, Engineering, and Resource industries.
Why do you find these services and industries interesting?
My professional journey has taken me through a variety of roles. As a result of this career path, I have been exposed to an environment that challenges my knowledge and skills continuously, fueling my passion for Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Every new project or role I take on requires me to adapt and often acquire new knowledge. It is the interplay of these different experienced, combined with the ever-evolving nature of the industries I work in, that keeps me motivated and invested in what I do.
What did you study, and what made you decide on a career at TBH?
The early stages of my career were very much focused on Electrical Engineering, and I pursued several formal qualifications while simultaneously being mentored and trained as an engineer.
It was during those days that I obtained qualifications in electrical installation, inspection & testing of electrical circuits, selecting equipment for usage in explosive areas and field bus communication systems. In addition to this I also studied Building Services Engineering, obtaining a High National Certificate Diploma.
My career moved into more managerial avenues after that, and it was here that I decided to undertake further study in the format of learning different contract types & structures. I also studied for a Degree in Business Management which covered a broad range of topics.
I had another stage of career evolution, which led me to dispute resolution. It was at this point that I decided to learn about avoiding and resolving contractual disputes, alternative dispute resolution methods, and the processes for construction adjudication. In doing so I studied matters such as laws, practices, and procedures for construction adjudication, obligations of contract law (including common, civil, and tort), as well as the process of drafting, evidence-based decisions.
As a result of the above, I became a Construction Adjudicator under the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators standards. My 10+ years of continuous formal learning combined with my 15+ years of real-world experience is what then inspired me to join the world of consultancies and in particular TBH.
What major projects have you worked on while at TBH?
I am currently engaged in providing expert quantum assessments for matters in dispute, which are set to be heard before the Supreme Courts of Australia, matters to be settled under Adjudication, and matters which are the subject of Expert Determination. While the nature of these projects and the works performed must remain confidential, I lean on my previously mentioned qualifications and experience to conduct the works required.
My role as an expert witness requires me to take complex information, factually analyse it, and present my findings in an easily comprehensible format so that those involved in resolving the dispute may gain a better understanding.
Since joining TBH, I have also been involved in providing strategic commercial advisor services to WA-based contractors and contractors / developers overseas, and through these assignments, I have been able to advise on a wide range of commercial aspects, from issuing and defending claims, to general contract administration on large multimillion-dollar projects — all the while striving to add value through either the sharing of knowledge or actualised commercial betterment.
Can you share some of the key highlights and accomplishments from your professional journey?
My professional journey has been marked by numerous highlights, and one of my greatest accomplishments is the ability to operate at this level, serving both public and private sector clients across a diverse range of services.
I have had the rewarding opportunity to mentor emerging talent within our fields. Contributing to the professional development of others while simultaneously honing my own leadership and communication skills has made this aspect of my work extremely fulfilling. This reciprocal nature of mentorship has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
Beyond the office, I have also been fortunate to share my professional experiences and insights on various platforms. Engaging in thought-provoking podcast discussions and taking on guest presenter roles have enabled me to connect with a diverse pool of professionals and industry leaders. These interactions have not only significantly expanded my network but have also opened doors to exciting new opportunities and partnerships, further enriching my professional journey.
What are you passionate about?
My passion lies in delivering solutions and closing out objectives, and where possible doing so beyond expectations. In the future it would be great to be able to offer my services on a pro-bono basis, as all too often we come across parties that have lost out on contractual arrangements and may not necessarily possess the funds to engage an expert’s perspective.
What major innovations or industry trends are you most excited about?
As an engineer at heart, I am specifically interested in the future of green energy projects, including solar power, tidal power, and wind power. Further, I’m interested in learning more about decommissioning projects that are set for the future, since newer, more efficient technologies can be implemented thanks to this process. Over the last 18 months, my interest in subsea and offshore projects has grown significantly due to some of the leading industry debates I have witnessed, both from a commercial and technological advancement perspective.
I attended a seminar in late 2023 where early indications pointed towards a likely increase in arbitrations being served in relation to offshore and decom projects, and this is thought to be due to the fact that the terms of the contracts do not yet fully align with the works, which are still under development (among other things). This presents a great opportunity for potential clients to engage TBH and have us involved from the start with the goal of significantly reducing, if not completely eliminating the need for formal disputes, due to our advisory and practical project services.
What difference are you hoping to make for TBH in the region you work in?
As part of the TBH Western Australian team, I am committed to making a significant impact in our region.
I understand that construction, mining, energy, and engineering companies are primarily “project-driven businesses,” where each project’s success directly impacts overall performance. With this in mind, my focus over the next 24 months will be on working closely with WA-based developers, contractors, and subcontractors to ensure their projects are commercially robust and their business interests are positioned for optimal success. Additionally, I’ll be dedicating significant effort to expanding our Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services, providing expert advice and support to legal professionals, contractors, subcontractors, and government entities.
This strategy will focus on developing our emerging talent, and ensuring TBH is future-proofed for decades to come, all while providing our clients with well-trained, experienced professionals in an environment conducive to growth. Lastly, I’m looking forward to collaborating with local professional organisations to promote best practices within the region and beyond, to help elevate industry standards and deliver exceptional value to our networks.
Through these combined efforts, I hope to help strengthen TBH’s position in the market, enhance our service offerings, and ensure we remain a trusted, innovative partner in Western Australia for years to come.
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